Chain Lakes Trail #682

Dogs Off-leash

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fishing · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Parking areas requires the use of Recreation Pass which can not be purchased on site. Instead, pickup one up from the self-serve credit card station at the ranger station in the town of Glacier.

The Chain Lakes Trail offers hikers a best-hits sample pack of views as they circle around Table Mountain. Along the way it connects to Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1, Table Mountain Trail #681, and the Bagley Lakes Trail #684.1. The tread alternates between gravel, smooth dirt, chunky or craggy rocks and occasional roots. Only in one place is there anything that resembles a scramble.

In addition to views of Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Baker, several mountain lakes provide plenty of sights to enjoy. Camping is also permitted at both Mazama and Hayes lake where out-back toilets are located. When hiking clockwise there are more descents than climbs, but you'll still put in a good amount of work at times. In the reverse, the climbing is more noticeable but is completed earlier on in the hike.

This is a popular trail so expect to pause or step to the side of traffic headed in the opposite direction, especially on weekends.

Listen for the chirps of Pica in rock slides.